Manchester United are poised to miss out on the signing of young French defender Dayot Upamecano, despite having led the race for his signature for much of the summer.
While the Red Devils have remained confident of capturing the 16-year-old defender, former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has been working away behind the scenes on a deal for Upamecano.
Houllier works as the global sporting director for Red Bull, in which capacity he has been engaging with Upamecano.
According to France Football, the former Liverpool manager's charm offensive has worked and Upamecano is imminently set to put pen to paper on a three-year contract with Red Bull Salzburg.
Upamecano's current club, Valenciennes, are expected to pocket a sum of €2m in compensation from Red Bull Salzburg.
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Capturing the young French talent is a big boost for the Austrian giants given the stature of the other clubs chasing the France Under-17 international.
In addition to Manchester United, Upamecano was also linked with Manchester City and Bayern Munich.
But he will continue his career in Austria.
